Iron Sharpens Iron: 5am Squats and Squad Goals

There’s something special about starting your day before the world fully wakes up. For the past two years, my mornings have begun with a ritual that’s shaped not just my body but my soul: meeting with my 5am gym crew at Crunch.

When I first joined, I thought I was just signing up for workouts with my new boyfriend, Wes. Little did I know, I’d be gaining a community unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. We’re not just a group of people lifting weights or running on treadmills; we’re a support system.

We laugh and joke a lot, sharing stories and moments that make even the toughest workouts enjoyable. But it’s not just about fitness—we talk about all parts of our lives. From work stress to family milestones, we’ve become each other’s sounding boards and confidants. When one of us wins, we all celebrate. When one of us hurts, we all feel it.

What makes this crew so special is the respect and encouragement we show one another. There’s no competition, no judgment—just a shared commitment to showing up, putting in the work, and supporting each other every step of the way.

These friendships have turned into family. Knowing I’d see their faces, hear the jokes, and feel the camaraderie of our group has often been the boost I needed to keep going.

So, I’ll ask you: do you have a support system? Whether it’s a gym group, a circle of friends, or a tight-knit family, having people who cheer you on, laugh with you, and stand by you through ups and downs can make all the difference.

If you’re looking for one, it might be closer than you think. I didn’t expect to find mine at 5am in a gym, but here we are—stronger together in every way.

Let me know about your tribe or crew. Who inspires and supports you? Who do you laugh with, cry with, and celebrate life’s wins with?